Breaking up is hard to do…

Ok, I know that I’m not supposed to be attached to my earthly possessions. I know that.

I know that we’re supposed to store up our treasures in heaven, and not on earth.

19 “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew: 6:19-21

But I still felt a distinct sadness when I saw so many of my things laid out on a table with small purple, green, and yellow stickers on them this past weekend.

I still felt that twinge of anger when someone asked for a “bargain price” on the very possessions that I have come to love.

You see, these branches that most would overlook, were used as the centerpiece at our place card table at our wedding.

They have a deep, special meaning to me and I’ve had to say goodbye to them.

And see the plain red and black bowl below? My mom bought it for me many years ago. It’s the very bowl where I’ve eaten countless servings of soup on chilly Chicago nights, and savored many a leftover.

Will someone else love it as much as I have?

In this whole moving process I’ve come to realize how much I love my “stuff”—the same stuff that I’ve threatened to get rid of each spring. But when staring at it on a moving sale table I realized just how deep my attachment to it was. And I’d be lying if I said that selling it all doesn’t suck. A lot. It does.

I have to pray constantly for the Lord to help me let it all go. Because He truly is worth losing all of this “stuff.” Changing my life in obedience to Him isn’t easy, but it’s an amazing privilege.

Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere-Psalm 84:10

That being said…anyone in the Chicago area want some stuff? We’ve got lots left to sell!

I totally understand how you feel. We had to move to Alaska in 2010 and to do so we sold nearly EVERYTHING. It was really hard. But it was also freeing to remove the encumbrances of earthly possessions. I will never again let myself get to the point of becoming too attached to things, and I am careful not to hoard things.

Best wishes for you in the process of clearing things out. It’s a spiritual and learning process, oddly enough. I appreciate your honesty.

As much as I love the idea of purging … it’s the actual letting go that is always a huge challenge. I just spent the past few days going through my drawers and when I came across a t-shirt from our honeymoon (not looking too good, by the way) I couldn’t let go of it …

With the leftovers, try to find a shelter you love. Battered women, refugees, Willow Creek Church Care Center, whatever moves you. Then give with a big ol’ smile knowing that someone WILL cherish it because it’s all they have!

I’m so happy you are one more day closer to your Great Adventure!~ Dana